With 71 days left until the regular season opener for the New England Patriots, we are looking at every player for the franchise that has ever worn the No. 71 jersey.
Offensive guard Michael Onwenu, who is one of the most underrated offensive players in the NFL, currently wears the number for New England. He was snubbed from the Pro Bowl in 2022, despite having the fourth-highest Pro Football Focus grade at his position.
Cleveland Browns guard Joel Bitonio was the only other AFC offensive guard with a higher grade than Onwenu.
Of course, there have been other standouts to wear the jersey, from offensive linemen to defensive linemen. Here’s every Patriots player that has worn the No. 71 jersey throughout franchise history (via Pro Football Reference):
G Michael Onwenu: 2020-2023
DT Danny Shelton: 2018-2019
OT Cameron Fleming: 2014-2017
DT Sealver Siliga: 2013
DT Andre Neblett: 2013
DT Brandon Deaderick: 2010-2012
G Kendall Simmons: 2009
OL Russ Hochstein: 2002-2008
OL Todd Rucci: 1993-1999
OL Gregg Rakoczy: 1991-1992
NT Fred DeRiggi: 1990
DE Ben Reed: 1987
DL Ray Hamilton: 1973-1981
DE Art May: 1971
DL Mel Witt: 1970
OT Don Oakes: 1963-1968
